Filly at Blackwood Stables Tests Positive for EHV-1
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Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
The training track at Blackwood Stables
The Kentucky state veterinarian's office reports that restrictions have been put in place for the training facility at Blackwood Stables near Versailles, Ky., after equine herpes myeloencephalopathy was confirmed in a 3-year-old filly based there.
PCR Testing conducted at Equine Diagnostic Solutions in Lexington reported the neuropathogenic strain of EHV-1 was detected from a nasal swab from the ailing filly. According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners, horses with neurologic signs which test positive for EHV‐1 are considered positive for EHM, which can have a fatality rate as high as 30%.
According to the state vet, the filly reportedly had a fever March 6 and was referred to a veterinary hospital in Lexington March 9 after becoming unstable and ataxic. As of March 10, the filly was reported to be showing signs of improvement.
The Kentucky state veterinarian's office was alerted of the suspected EHV-1 case Tuesday night and the training facility was placed under restriction pending completion of diagnostic testing.
Kentucky state veterinarian Katie Flynn and Kentucky equine operations consultant Rusty Ford visited Blackwood March 11. Ford said all of the needed restrictions have been put in place and Blackwood Stables staff is committed to carrying out the needed precautions.
Ford released the name of the facility with permission from Blackwood Stables.
The Kentucky state veterinarian's office reports 27 exposed horses had samples (nasal swabs and whole blood) collected earlier Thursday and submitted for PCR Testing.
The state vet noted that the case is not connected to any other EHV-1 incidents.
In addition to the affected premises, precautionary measures have been implemented at Turfway Park with all horses shipping in to race required to stable in the receiving barn—unless a trainer has permanently assigned stalls at Turfway. In addition to the adjustment of stabling, biosecurity protocols have been elevated.
The state vet's office has personnel onsite examining health documents and coordinating efforts with Kentucky Horse Racing Commission staff.